Interview with Amy L. Sauder: Author of Enchantment, Mystery, and Psychological Depth We had the pleasure of speaking with Amy L. Sauder , an author who seamlessly blends the realms of fantasy and mystery. With a unique storytelling style, Amy explores enchanting circumstances intertwined with psychological depth and intrigue. About Amy L. Sauder What inspired you to write in both the fantasy and mystery thriller genres? “I don’t so much pick a genre as have a story that grabs me. I primarily write about enchanting circumstances within everyday life. Secrets, mysteries, and what lies within us all form their own enchantment to uncover. I find inspiration from dreams, stories—books, shows—art, and the magic in everyday life.” When developing your stories, do you usually start with the characters or the plot? “I love plot twists and have them in mind from the start. However, the initial spark tends to be the characters, especially ones who have so much to say. Some character moments ju
Halloween, with its unique blend of mystery, fear, folklore, and celebration, serves as a powerful muse for many artists. For poet LindaAnn LoSchiavo, this holiday holds a special place in her heart and deeply influences her work. In this interview, LindaAnn shares how the atmosphere of Halloween inspires her poetry and explores the rich tapestry of emotions, symbols, and traditions associated with this haunting holiday. Q: How does the atmosphere of Halloween inspire your poetry? What elements of this holiday do you find most poetic? LindaAnn: As a late October Scorpio, I’ve always felt Samhain was “my holiday.” The seasonal atmosphere of October 31st inspires poetry through its unique blend of mystery, fear, folklore, and celebration. My Halloween verses in “Messengers of the Macabre: Halloween Poems” (Audience Askew, Oct. 2022) and in “Always Haunted: Halloween Poems” (Wild-Ink Publishing, Oct. 2024) draw inspiration from the intrinsic spirit of misrule and the supernatural. Let